Organizers of the first national Gun Appreciation Day urged responsible gun owners to visit gun stores, gun shows and gun ranges “to send a loud and clear message to Congress and President Obama” on Second Amendment rights. Many took a more direct approach, converging on state capitals to take their message directly to their elected representatives. For a first-time event, crowds were impressive.

“Guns Across America” rallies are taking place in 49 state capitol buildings today, for Gun Appreciation Day.

Widespread, peaceful demonstrations proved how essential citizens’ First Amendment rights are to the preservation of their Second Amendment rights — if only convincing people of the reverse could be done so simply.